Vice President, Government Relations & Public Affairs

Vice President, Government Relations & Public Affairs

Mike World Wide  is seeking a well-rounded senior government relations professional in its Trenton-based office. This is a high-growth, high-visibility role for a client service-obsessed leader with experience leading multi-dimensional, multi-workstream accounts. Our ideal candidate is a modern, integrated thinker with a command of the rapidly changing environment of public opinion and public policy: well-versed in the use of digital and paid strategies, and rooted in active, hands-on management of government relations and public affairs.

If you understand and live in the intersection of public policy, public relations, and community relations and possess a deep understanding of these dynamics in New Jersey, this role is for you.

We are seeking candidates with a demonstrated ability to think critically and influence elected and appointed officials to move to action. A strong understanding of the legislative process and established relationships with New Jersey policy makers and key staff are required. New York government affairs experience a plus. A bias toward action and willingness to be hands‑on with teams and client deliverables in fast-moving situations is highly valued.

Experience in political campaigns is a strong plus.

Experience and background in campaigns, New Jersey Legislature, Governor’s Administration, or New Jersey’s Congressional offices are required. Prior experience as a registered lobbyist is preferred. The position will involve participation in comprehensive public affairs and legislative strategies, and direct outreach to pubic officials, community leaders, business organizations and other key New Jersey stakeholders and influencers.

Agency experience is advantageous, but individuals with experience in New Jersey public policy at the federal, state, or local level is important and will be considerably weighted. Also, those who have engaged in direct government relations as in‑house counsel or lobbyists for New Jersey based entities are encouraged to apply. Entrepreneurial candidates, such as those who have worked as Independent practitioners with an existing book of business, are encouraged to apply.

Candidates will be expected to operate in a client‑facing capacity, including participation in regular meetings virtually and in person within New Jersey. There will also be involvement in client events, business development, and campaign activities that include participation in forums outside of the home/office.

• Provide high-level account strategy. Direction and management and strategic counsel to clients across the spectrum of public affairs, including positioning and messaging, stakeholder engagement, policy making, legislative process, issues management, and executive visibility.
• Participate in growth and business development activities to expand Mike World Wide ’s presence and footprint in Trenton and throughout the state.
• Experience with legislative and policy making is important. Working on an issue from the time a bill is drafted, through the legislative process and ending with Governor’s enactment.
• Understanding and tracking Rules and Regulations through various Departments and Divisions within the Governor’s Administration.
• Key contacts at the state, county and local elected and appointed official levels. Maintaining and using these relationships to assist various government affairs initiatives and public affairs campaigns.
• Attend New Jersey Senate and Assembly legislative committee hearings and provide recaps of those hearings to a variety of clients. Working on legislation during the Senate and Assembly voting sessions to achieve desired client outcomes.
• Structure and oversee day‑to‑day operational and campaigns of integrated account teams, generating fresh, smart ideas and leading programs.
• Crafting thoughtful points of view and recommendations based on a broad understanding of client landscapes, business and industry environment and public policy positions.
• Anticipate potential risks and issues and help clients navigate challenges with deep institutional and category expertise.
• Provide account…